Question

Ulcers are often caused by an excess of stomach acid. Milk of magnesia is often used to soothe the irritation. Milk of magnesia is probably a?

1) Antacid
2) Antibiotic
3) Analgesic
4) Anti-inflammatory

Answer 1

Milk of magnesia is an antacid used to neutralize stomach acid and relieve symptoms associated with ulcers.

Step-by-step explanation:

Milk of magnesia is an antacid.

Milk of Magnesia is a commonly used antacid that helps to neutralize excess stomach acid. Its active ingredient is magnesium hydroxide, Mg(OH)2, which reacts with hydrochloric acid (HCl) in the stomach, leading to a neutralization reaction.

This reaction forms magnesium chloride (MgCl2), water, and thus relieves the irritation in the stomach lining. It is especially helpful for those suffering from gastric ulcers, which can be exacerbated by the acidic environment in the stomach. While antacids like milk of magnesia are effective in neutralizing acid, they are distinct from antibiotics that are prescribed when an ulcer is caused by an H. pylori infection and from other medication classes such as H₂-receptor antagonists or proton pump inhibitors, which reduce the production of stomach acid.